WHEN LIZ CAAN DECIDED it was time to expand the living area of her 1920s Georgian-style home in Chestnut Hill, she went underground. “Before we considered adding on to the house, we felt we should maximize the footprint,” says Caan, a Newton interior designer who shares the home with her husband, their two teenagers, and their 5-year-old son. “Finishing the basement was an easy way to gain 1,000 square feet of living space.” With bright colors and fun accent pieces, Caan transformed the room, previously used only for storage and laundry, into a haven with ample area to entertain and unwind.

1 > AN ULTRASUEDE SOFA in a neutral hue, from Williams-Sonoma Home, is both attractive and durable. “All types of stains come out with soap and water,” Caan says.